The 2005 Merlot Riserva Kastelaz is a rich, deep wine redolent of blackberries, flowers, spices and grilled herbs. The Kastelaz possesses notable concentration and depth, with a round, harmonious finish. Nothing in particular stands out; just the wine’s impeccable balance. Pretty, floral notes waft from the glass on the close. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2013. Importer: Chambers & Chambers, San Francisco, CA; tel. (415) 642-5500

The 2004 Merlot Riserva Kastelaz offers plump dark fruit intermingled with grilled herbs, licorice and sweet toasted oak. This medium-bodied wine offers excellent persistence on the palate and plenty of style with a distinctly Alto Adige accent. Refined, elegant tannins round out the long finish. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2012. Elena Walch makes stylish wines from her vineyards in Alto Adige. Although the region is better known for its whites, I found Walch’s reds to be more convincing as well as consistent throughout the range. Importer: Artisan Wine, Norwalk, CT; tel. (203) 866-4552